James Ferguson

I am a practicing counsellor and psychotherapist, BACP registered, with lived experience of neurodiversity, childhood bereavement and cancer survival. I work both independently and within an established clinic with a wide range of complex clients presenting with trauma, substance abuse, addiction and compulsive behaviours and issues connected with sexual pluralism. I offer sessions in Edinburgh and London to clients ranging from teenagers, to those in their later years. I believe every person experiencing anxiety and pain has a right to be heard, and that sensitive, non-judgmental listening is the first stage to making meaning of experiences that initially appear baffling, complex and irrational

I am a qualified therapist with a Masters’ degree in Counselling (2016) and a COSCA validated Diploma in Counselling (2015) from the University of Edinburgh. I am also a qualified sexologist with a Diploma in Counselling for Compulsive Sexual Behaviour (2024) from the Contemporary Institute of Clinical Sexology. I am trained in COFRA 121 STOPSO offering a therapeutic approach for sex offenders and COFRA 121 STOPSO for their partners. I have completed Level II and III training in Brainspotting as an approach to trauma work.

My degree offered a solid training in Person Centred Counselling and Psychodynamic Counselling and I use Jungian influenced parts work alongside more directive approaches including CBT and DBT skills and somatic techniques. I enjoy developing a creative partnership with clients employing Psycho-drama techniques where appropriate.

 I am also a registered member with the BACP and hold a current PVG.

I have lived experience of recovery from addiction and personal experience of neurodivergence, and I am very comfortable offering therapeutic support on issues resulting  from these conditions.

I prefer to focus on a specific issue, initially for the first six sessions and then review with the client how we might continue after those meetings. I believe fundamentally, that given a sympathetic environment and a supportive relationship, most people seeking help are able to identify the direction and time-scale of their journey.

• For new clients I offer an initial 20-minute informal, online or telephone session free of charge, which allows you to ask further questions about how the relationship works and confirmation that I can help you with your goals